What are some top-rated bookshelf speakers?

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Quick Answer

Some top-rated bookshelf speakers as of 2015 include the Dali Zensor 1, the Music Hall Marimba, the Kef Q100 and the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR, according to The Wirecutter. These bookshelf speakers all offer high-sound quality at varying price levels.

Dali's Zensor 1 speakers receive the best all-around rating for their reasonable price and strong audio quality. The speakers offer detailed sound, strong bass and durable construction. With a matching center channel, users can add the speakers to a surround sound audio system. Dali also offers a comprehensive five-year warranty.

Music Hall’s Marimba bookshelf speakers rank as The Wirecutter's runner-up. The speakers offer quality sound, but reviewers note that the tones aren’t as deep as those of the Zensor 1. The speakers are slightly cheaper than the Dali model, though the construction is not as strong and they offer no center channel.

On the higher end of the spectrum, Kef’s Q100 speakers offer clearer, more detailed sound, albeit at a much higher price. The speakers also offer strong bass tones and can fit into a surround sound home theater system.

Among budget models, Pioneer’s SP-BS22-LR ranks as the best option. They’re cheaper than most, but the speakers still offer better sound quality than other budget bookshelf speakers. The Wirecutter notes that their sound is less detailed than the other models reviewed.